HC Deb 14 May 1924 vol 173 cc1340-1
58. Lieut.-Colonel HOWARD-BURY

asked the Prime Minister whether he will lay upon the Table of the House a copy of the recent Treaty signed between Germany and Turkey?

The PRIME MINISTER

It is contrary to well-established practice to lay before Parliament treaties between third parties, save in very exceptional cases where such treaties gravely affect British interests which it is proper for Parliament to consider and discuss. The present Treaty does not fall within this category.

Lieut.-Colonel HOWARD-BURY

Is this a secret Treaty or not?

The PRIME MINISTER

No, it is not. The question is whether we shall lay it on the Table. That is contrary to all precedent, provided that British interests are not specially involved or in any way involved in it. I say that they are not in this case.

Captain BERKELEY

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the signatories to this Treaty propose to register the Treaty at Geneva?

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Member should put a question on the Paper.